CCM vows to advance national growth

PEMBA: CCM presidential running mate, Ambassador Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi, has praised the sixth-phase government for its remarkable success in upholding peace, security and national unity, pledging that the next CCM administration will build on foundations while accelerating the country’s development.

Addressing a campaign rally in North Pemba yesterday, Dr Nchimbi said the impressive progress achieved under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan and Zanzibar President Dr Hussein Mwinyi reflects the spirit of unity, love and stability that binds Tanzanians from both sides of the Union.

“Our leaders are humble and hardworking. Their achievements speak for themselves. We don’t need long speeches to explain what everyone can see, they have continued to protect our peace, security and the brotherhood of our Union,” Dr Nchimbi said.

He noted that Zanzibar’s economy has grown by seven per cent, a milestone he attributed to strong cooperation between the government and citizens, adding that it demonstrates the success of President Mwinyi’s development policies. Dr Nchimbi further said that CCM’s five-year plan focuses on strengthening public institutions, safeguarding the Union at all costs and promoting unity and reconciliation among Tanzanians.

“We will continue to defend our Union because unity is strength. We are committed to ensuring public institutions deliver tangible results for citizens, this is the foundation of national progress and prosperity,” he stressed.

He revealed that as a young boy, he was first introduced to politics by Mzee Ramadhani Shaibu, a resident of Pemba who taught him the history of the 1964 Revolution and the leadership of the late Abeid Amani Karume.

“President Samia was born in Unguja but studied and lived in Pemba. I, too, was taught politics by a man from Pemba. Our bond with these islands is therefore both historical and brotherly,” he said.

Dr Nchimbi added that CCM is determined to preserve the history and legacy of the Zanzibar Revolution by establishing a Revolution Museum, which will document the nation’s story of equality, unity and the heroes who shaped it for future generations.

Speaking on economic priorities, Dr Nchimbi said the next CCM government will continue to strengthen the Blue Economy strategy initiated by President Mwinyi, saying the plan includes upgrading Wete Port, enhancing value addition in the fisheries sector and expanding seaweed farming.

“We aim to double annual fish production from 80,000 tonnes to 160,000 tonnes within the next five years, alongside providing modern fishing gear and facilities,” he noted.

He also said that CCM will prioritise irrigating agriculture by supporting farmers with improved seeds, fertilisers, affordable loans and reliable markets for key crops such as cloves, fruits and vegetables.

On infrastructure, Dr Nchimbi revealed plans to upgrade Pemba Airport to international standards to facilitate tourism and improve air connectivity for passengers and cargo.

Dr Nchimbi mentioned major road projects, including Chake–Mkoani, Mtambile–Chakechake and Stendi– Chakechake which will be constructed and completed with tarmac standards.

He further expressed CCM’s commitment to enhancing education in Zanzibar, promising to expand primary and secondary schools, vocational training centres and raise school enrollment rates to 90 per cent.

Commenting on the ongoing campaign, Dr Nchimbi said CCM’s message has been well-received because of the visible work done by President Samia.

“The only challenge our President has is that she’s too humble to boast about her achievements. But everyone can see the progress she has made, even her critics acknowledge it. That’s why our campaign is smooth and wellgrounded,” he said.

He urged the people of Pemba and Zanzibar to give overwhelming support to President Samia and Dr Mwinyi in the upcoming election, saying their record of service, integrity and patriotism is undeniable.

“If there is one thing the world will find surprising, it’s giving Dr Samia fewer votes despite all she has done. Even those close to Othman Masoud (OMO) should go and ask him to vote for her because her work speaks louder than words,” he said.